The Manager's report back on requesting DCR to take measures to reduce vehicles blocking the exit from the Fresh Pond Mall to Alewife Brook Parkway

Based on this Policy Order, staff from the Traffic, Parking, + Transportation Department have consulted with staff from DCR on this issue, and sent the attached letter to DCR Commissioner Leo Roy on this issue. Based on these discussions, DCR has indicated that they will try to determine if there are any actions that they can take to address this situation.

However, they did note certain specific challenges associated with this location: • Because this intersection consists only of highly channelized right turns on to and off of Alewife Brook Parkway and a pedestrian crossing, this is not a typical intersection where it is possible to clearly install the type of “don’t block the box” markings and signs that are often used in these situations. • During the peak periods, Alewife Brook Parkway experiences significant congestion in this area, meaning that the blocking of the exit from the Fresh Pond Mall is often unintentional, since drivers may realize too late that they will be unable leave the intersection and avoiding blocking the exit.

Notwithstanding these challenges, DCR has indicated that they will continue to look at this location to determine if there are any physical solutions to this issue, and to coordinate with the State Police on potential enforcement activities. Staff from Traffic, Parking, + Transportation will follow up with DCR staff and provide the City Council with an update if any additional information becomes available.